Friday, June 16, 2006

Kayla, So Far Away

This is a photo of Kayla that I took last fall when she was out here visiting us.
She lives in Edmonton. We could drive there in a day, if we went nonstop. I really feel a need to be close to her right now. But even if I could get out there, I couldnt see her anyways. She is in isolation. Only her mom and dad are allowed in, and they have to scrub, gown, glove and mask. The chemo has knocked her white cell count out of existance, her hemoglobin is really low and her platelets are down, causing nosebleeds. Also her potasium is low causing heart palpatation and fainting spells. So they gave her a blood transfusion. Hopefully that will help. She is on tons of antibiotics. She has now got a feeding tube going in through her nose as she has lost over 10% of her body weight. She has put 3 pounds back on since they put that in place. She is still nauseated and vomits a couple times a day. I know she has spirit and will pull through this, because she is determined. They have scheduled surgery for August 2nd, five days before her 16th birthday. Almost a month later than anticipated. Partly because of her cell count etc. They want her to build some strength again. Also one of the surgeons is going on vacation and that is the soonest he will be back. I cant imagine going away when you know a childs life is at stake. But I guess if they never thought about themselves, doctors might never get a break!
What surgery? They werent able to slow the tumor growth and her knee is totally eaten away. So sadly, she will be having her leg removed.

It is such a dreadful thing for anyone, let alone a 15 year old girl. I thank everyone who has been keeping Kayla in your thoughts and prayers. I ask that you continue to do so. She needs support now more than ever. I will send her copies of my comments so she can see the ammount of people who are rooting for her.

Thanks for stopping by.

18 comments:

Anonymous said...

my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, and especially for kayla at this time. i'm rooting for her. she is strong and has youth on her side, for sure. keeping the faith here in the east...poet

Deanna said...

If today renders you as low as you can go, let positive thoughts for tomorrow flow into your mind, and leave the low day behind. Wishing you a safe journey, through this rough patch of your life.

Dick said...

My prayers also go out to Kayla. As poet says, she has youth on her side and from what you have written in the past, a very good attitude.

Anonymous said...

My prayers are with Kayla at this difficult time. I hope she continues to improve from the effects of the chemo. I'm sure she is receiving wonderful care at the Cancer Clinic and from what you've written about her in the past, she is a determined young lady with a wonderful attitude.

Take care and sending lots of hugs to you and your family.

gal artist said...

I am so saddened to read this update, what a traumatic thing for a beautiful young girl to go through.

I will continue to pray for her.

Fred said...

What a difficult time for everyone involved. She's a very beautiful young lady.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Kayla and her family.

August95 said...

Hey Susan, sending hugs and prayers out to you and your family. Kayla comes from great people and I am sure she is very strong.

Hugs and love to you and yours. Kayla, we are all out here thinking of you and praying for you.

Squirl said...

Kayla, hang in there honey. Things will get better.

David said...

Stopping by to catch up and I read such a sad post. I hate that illness and especially when it attacks the young. SPecial prayers for her.

ellen said...

I was terribly disappointed to read what poor Kayla is having to endure. I continue to include her in my daily prayers.

Gary said...

This is a terrible thing for her to have to go through, especially at such a young age. I hope she can recover from this truly unfortunate condition.

EMOB said...

Kayla - stay strong - you can do this! You have a loving family and many blogger friends rooting for you. My thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with you.

Rose said...

Dear Kayla, I wish for nothing but the best for you. You are BEAUTIFUL, remember that. You will beat this, stay strong!!

chosha said...

Absolutely she'll be in my prayers. That's a hard road for someone so young.

Unknown said...

I'm thinking of and praying for you and your family. Stay strong, Kayla.

Stephanie said...

what cute dogs!!

Effie said...

wow--let her know my prayers are with her! (I came here from August95)

MilkMaid said...

Kayla dear, keep your face to the sun and your heart and spirit up.

Thinking of you, from Southeast,Texas